Key takeaways
- Higher sheen means more durable and more shine
- Flat hides flaws but marks easily
- Satin and semi-gloss suit trim, kitchens and baths
- Use the Sheen Selector tool to test your choice
Sheen is how much light a painted surface reflects. It affects the look of the color, how well flaws hide and how easily you can clean the wall.
The usual choices
- Flat and matte: soft and non-reflective, great on ceilings and low-traffic walls
- Eggshell: a gentle glow that is easy to wipe, popular in living rooms and bedrooms
- Satin: smooth and washable, good for family rooms, hallways and kids’ rooms
- Semi-gloss: tough and shiny, ideal for trim, doors, kitchens and baths
- Gloss: dramatic and very durable, used on doors, cabinets and furniture
The trade-off
The shinier the finish, the more it shows bumps and repairs. That is why we spend extra time on prep when you want a higher sheen. Try the Sheen Selector tool to see a quick suggestion for each surface.
Related services
Questions about your own space? Call or text 800-224-9245, or use the quote form below.